OSHA Fatal Facts: Fatalities Caused by Improper Work Practices Fatal Facts R2.pdf · 1....

OSHA Fatal Facts: Fatalities Caused by Improper Work Practices Course No: C04-026 Credit: 4 PDH

Mark Rossow, PhD, PE, Retired

Continuing Education and Development, Inc. 9 Greyridge Farm Court Stony Point, NY 10980 P: (877) 322-5800 F: (877) 322-4774 [email protected]

OSHA’s Fatal Facts: Fatalities Caused by

Improper Work Practices

by

Mark P. Rossow PE, PhD

1. Introduction This course is based on case studies taken from the Occupational Safety and Health

Administration’s “Fatal Facts”—descriptions of accidents in which one or more workers died

because of improper work practices. Reading and thinking about these case studies gives an

immediacy and emotional impact—“Do you mean somebody died because of this?”—that can’t

be obtained from an abstract discussion of general principles alone.

The present document first provides background information about the types and frequency of

work-related accidents both in general and in the particular case of Fatal Facts accidents. Then

some guidelines are given for preventing accidents by following proper work practices. The

remainder of the document consists of Fatal Facts accident summaries. The purpose of the

course is not to teach the reader details of specific OSHA Standards but rather to dramatize the

severe consequences that may arise when OSHA rules are ignored. Every scenario described in

Fatal Facts violates one or more current rules.

2.1 Background on Work-Related Accidents To appreciate the significance of the Fatal Facts, it is helpful to be familiar with the extent and

types of work-related accidents in general. In the United States at the present time, over 5,000

workers die each year from work-related injuries. In addition to these fatalities, serious injuries

(those involving the loss of six or more days of work) may exceed $60 billion a year in employer

costs—a large proportion of which is attributable to workers' compensation costs. Some idea of

the types of accidents that occur can be gained by examining the list of the top ten most-cited

OSHA standards violated in a recent year:

Fall protection, construction

Hazard communication

Scaffolding

Respiratory protection

Control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout)

Ladders, construction

Powered industrial trucks

Machinery and machine guarding

Fall protection—training requirements

Electrical, wiring methods

The occurrence of three fall-related violations (scaffolding, fall protection, and ladders) is

noteworthy.

2.2 Construction Accidents The above discussion concerns accidents in all industries. Focusing attention on the construction

industry alone shows that construction accounts for about one-fifth of all fatal accidents, and in a

recent year about 63. 7% of these are attributable to the “Fatal Four”:

Falls – 38. 7%

Struck by object – 9. 4%

Electrocutions – 8. 3%

Caught-in/between – 7. 3%

Again, the prevalence of fatalities from falls stands out.

3. Types of Fatal Facts Accidents The accident summaries presented in the present paper have been selected to ensure coverage of

a wide range of accident types, distributed among the following categories:

Falls

Asphyxiation

Nail gun

Falling object

Trenches

Caught in between

Electrocution/electrical shock

Explosion and fire

Drowning

Caught in machinery

It is interesting to compare this list of fatal accidents with the list previously given of the top ten

most frequently cited OSHA standards violated in a recent year. Although there is some

overlap, especially in fall-related items, the lists are not identical. Some types of accidents are

generally more lethal than others, and the list of violations refers to all situations—whether an

accident has occurred or not. For example, if a worksite lacks needed training in fall protection,

then an accident has not necessarily occurred but a violation of a standard has.

4. Accident Prevention Through Proper Work Practices Reading the Fatal Facts accident summaries below is a sobering experience. In most cases,

people died not because of some rare, one-in-a-million incident, but because someone made a

simple mistake. Yet the mistakes are not isolated, unique events. They share some features in

common, and examining these features can lead us to formulate the following general, common-

sense principles for accident prevention through proper work practices:

4.1. Training. Recognize that training in proper work practices is a necessary and unavoidable

cost of doing business. Training consists of two things: 1) learning the use of equipment and

procedures that are new to the worker, and 2) learning what particular hazards exist on the

current job site. Neither of these things is necessarily expensive or time-consuming, although

they may be in some instances. Telling a novice worker about the necessary precautions to take

when using a powder-actuated nail gun—that it can shoot nails completely through a hollow

wall, for example—would be enough to alert the worker to a potential hazard. Reminding

workers that when power lines are present, so is the danger of electrocution. Or that any time

flammable fluids are present, explosions are possible. Or if a heavy object is overhead, the

worker is always at risk of being crushed. Or that entry into a confined space presents unique

dangers.

4.2. Safety Devices. Recognize that identifying and installing proper safety devices is a

necessary and unavoidable cost of doing business. Many accidents are the result of cutting

corners, ignoring known safety devices so that things can be done faster and more cheaply.

Railings are not installed, safety harnesses and tethers are avoided, trench walls are not shored

and braced, respirator protection is not provided, barricades around machines are absent, and so

on. Omitting these devices is a false economy; the cost, both in financial and personal terms, of

even a single fatality or serious injury will far exceed any expected savings from the omission.

OSHA standards provide much useful information about what precautions must be taken and

what devices should be used.

4.3. Supervision and Enforcement. Recognize that monitoring workers’ compliance with

safety rules—and enforcement of the rules, when compliance is lacking—is a necessary and

unavoidable cost of doing business. In the absence of monitoring and enforcement, training and

safety devices may be ineffective and a waste of time and money.

5. Notes on Reading the Accident Summaries. 5. 1. Change in standards. OSHA standards change over the years, and the current standards at

https://www. osha. gov should be consulted before using the accident summaries below for

training. Similarly, many of the contact addresses and reference citations may not be current,

and a visit to the OSHA website is highly advised.

5.2. Numbering. OSHA began compiling Fatal Facts in 1984. Over time the list of accidents

grew and several years ago the number of accident summaries listed on the OSHA website

reached seventy. Although the website displays fewer accident summaries currently, in the

present paper accident summaries were selected from the seventy displayed several years ago.

These summaries were chosen because they are more accessible—easier to read and understand

then the summaries appearing on the website currently. Many of the seventy accidents are of a

similar type—falls comprise almost a third of the total—so to reduce duplication while still

providing the reader with a wide spectrum of accident types, in this document the list of seventy

fatal accidents has been whittled down to thirty. The numbering of the accident summaries

corresponds to the numbering used when they originally appeared on OSHA’s website.

https://www.osha.gov/

ACCIDENT SUMMARY No. 2

Accident Type: Struck by Nail

Weather Conditions: N/A

Type of Company: General

Contractors

Size of Work Crew: 17

Union or Non-union: Union

Worksite Inspection?: No

Designated Competent Person on

Site?:

No

Employer Safety and Health

Program?:

No

Training and Education for

Employees?:

No

Craft of Deceased Employee(s): Carpenter

Age; Sex 22; Male

Time of the Job: 3:00 p.m.

Time at the Task Unknown

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCIDENT

A carpenter apprentice was killed when he was struck in the head by a nail that was fired from a

powder actuated tool. The tool operator, while attempting to anchor a plywood form in

preparation for pouring a concrete wall, fired the gun causing the nail to pass through the hollow

wall. The nail travelled some twenty-seven feet before striking the victim. The tool operator had

never received training in the proper use of the tool, and none of the employees in the area were

wearing personal protective equipment.

ACCIDENT PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Institute a program for frequent and regular inspections of the job site, materials, and

equipment by a competent person(s) (1926.20(b)(2)).

2. Require employees exposed to the potential hazards associated with flying nails to use

appropriate personal protective equipment. (1926.100(a) and 1926.102(a)(1)).

3. Train employees using powder actuated tools in the safe operation of the particular tool

(1926.302(e)(2)).

4. Train employees operating powder actuated tools to avoid firing into easily penetrated

materials (1926.302(e)(8)).


Accident Type: Explosion

Weather Conditions: Clear

Type of Company: Removal/Installation/Junking of

Gasoline Pumps and Underground

Tanks


Union or Non-union: Non-union

Worksite Inspection

Conducted

(1926.20(b)(2)):

No

Designated

Competent Person on

Site (1926.20(b)(2)):

No

Employer Safety

Health Program:

No

Training and

Education for

Employees

Designated

(1926.21(b)):

No

Craft of Deceased

Employee(s): Laborer

Age & Sex 27; Male

Time on the Job: 2 years

Time on Task: 1 hour


A laborer was killed when a gasoline storage tank he was cutting with a portable power saw

exploded. The worker's company was involved in installing, removing and junking gasoline

pumps and underground tanks.

Although he had experienced working with the saw and scrap materials, the worker did not

adequately purge the tank and test for vapors before beginning to cut. The 18 x 6 foot, 3000

gallon tank had been used recently for underground storage at a service station. At the time of the

explosion, the mechanic was cutting on the tank with a gasoline powered portable saw equipped

with an abrasive epoxy disk for cutting metal. The explosion propelled the worker 10 to 15 feet

from the tank into another tank.


1. Train employees to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions when working with tanks that

have previously contained flammable liquids (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).

2. Follow recommended procedures set forth in American Petroleum Institute (API)

Bulletin 1604, "Recommended Practice for Abandonment or Removal of Used

Underground Service Station Tanks".

3. Test atmosphere in tank prior to work or cutting.

4. Establish guidelines for gas-freeing.


Accident Type: Struck by Collapsing Crane

Boom


Type of Company: General Contractor


Union or Non-union: Union

Worksite Inspections

Conducted: Yes

Designated Competent

Person on Site

(1926.20(b)(2)):

Yes

Employer Safety Health

Program:

Yes


Employees:

Yes

Craft of Deceased

Employee(s):

1. Iron Worker

2. Management Trainee

Age & Sex

1. Ironworker-35; male

2. Management

Trainee-26; male

Time on the Job: 1 hour

Time on Task: 1 hour


A crew of ironworkers and a crane operator were unloading a 20-ton steel slab from a low-boy

trailer using a 50-ton crawler crane with 90-foot lattice boom. The operator was inexperienced

on this crane and did not know the length of the boom. Further, no one had determined the load

radius. During lifting, the load moved forward and to the right, placing a twisting force on the

boom. The boom twisted under the load, swinging down, under and to the right. Two employees

standing 30 feet away apparently saw the boom begin to swing and ran. The boom struck one of

the employees - an ironworker - on the head, causing instant death. Wire rope struck the other --

a management trainee -- causing internal injuries. He died two hours later at a local hospital.


1. Train and test operators to determine qualifications: 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2) and 29 CFR

1926.550(b) ANSI B30.5 5-3.1.2.

2. Require proper written procedures to insure the method for lifting is within

manufacturer's specifications: 29 CFR 1926.550(a)(1).


Accident Type: Caught in or

Between


Type of Company: Street Paving

Contractor


Union or Non-union: Non-Union

Worksite Inspections Conducted

(1926.20(b)(2)): Yes

Designated Competent Person on Site

(1926.20(b)(2)):

Yes

Employer Safety Health Program: Yes


Employees (1926.21(b)):

Yes

Craft of Deceased Employee(s): Ironworker

Age & Sex: 22-Male

Time on the Job: 1 day

Time on Task: 3 Hours


A laborer was steam cleaning a scraper. The bowl apron had been left in the raised position. The

hydraulically controlled apron had not been blocked to prevent it from accidently falling. The

apron did fall unexpectedly and the employee was caught between the apron and the cutting edge

of the scraper bowl. The apron weighted approximately 2500 pounds.


1. Employer shall instruct each employee to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions

applicable to his work environment (1926.21(b)(2)).

2. Bulldozer and scraper blades and similar equipment shall either be fully lowered or

blocked when being repaired or not in use.


Accident Type: Fall from

Elevation



Collective Bargaining Non-Union

Competent Safety Monitor on Site: Yes

Safety and Health Program in Effect: Yes

Was the Worksite Inspected

Regularly: Yes

Training and Education Provided: Yes

Type of Operation: Painting

Contractor

Employee Job Title: Painter

Age & Sex: 36-Male

Time on the Job: 1 Week

Time on Task: 1 Hour


A painter foreman climbed over a bridge railing to inspect work being done, slipped, and fell 150

feet to his death.


1. Employers are to require employees to wear appropriate personal protective equipment

(safety belts) in all operations where employees are exposed to hazardous conditions or in

specific circumstances are required in OSHA standards 29 CFR 1926.28(a) and 29 CFR

1926.104(a).

2. Safety nets must be provided when workplaces are more than 25 feet above the ground or

water surface, or other surfaces where the use of ladders, scaffold, catch platforms,

temporary floors, safety lines, or safety belts is impractical as in accordance with OSHA

standard 29 CFR 1926.105(a).

3. Except where either permanent or temporary stairways or suitable ramps or runaways are

provided, suitable ladders should be used to give safe access to all elevations in

accordance with OSHA standard 29 CFR 1926.450(a)(1).


Accident Type: Crushed by Falling

Wall


Type of Operation: Demolition


Collective Bargaining Yes

Competent Safety Monitor on

Site:

Yes

Safety and Health Program in

Effect:

Yes


Regularly: Yes

Training and Education Provided: Yes

Employee Job Title: Laborer

Age & Sex: 18-Male

Experience at this Type of Work: 3 Weeks

Time on Project: 1 Weeks


A front end loader was being used to remove a piece of pipe and conduit near two 13 foot high

nonload bearing cement block walls. The front end loader, equipped with a "clam" attachment,

was pulling on pipe and conduit which ran through the upper part of the cement block walls.

Pulling on the piping caused the wall to collapse, crushing and killing a laborer who was

working within five feet of the base.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for one serious and three other than

serious violations of its construction standards.

OSHA's construction safety standards include several requirements which, if they had been

followed here, might have prevented this fatality.


1. Except for authorized persons, anyone not involved with the demolition work in progress

must be prohibited from being in a demolition area (29 CFR 1926.859(a)).

2. While demolition is underway, a competent person must continually inspect the

operations as the work progresses to detect an hazards caused by the weakening of walls

or other deterioration of materials (29 CFR 1926.859(g)).

3. In addition to these precautions, danger signs should be posted where an immediate

hazard exists.

SOURCES OF HELP

Construction Safety and Health Standards (OSHA 2207) which contains all OSHA job

safety and health rules and regulations covering construction.

OSHA Safety and Health Training Guidelines for Construction (available from the

National Technical Information Service -- Order No. PB-239-312/AS) comprised of set

of 15 guidelines to help construction employers establish a training program in the safe

use of equipment, tools and machinery the job.

OSHA-funded free onsite consultation services. Consult your telephone directory for the

number of your local OSHA area or regional office for further assistance and advice (list

under the U.S. Department of Labor or under the state government section where states

administer the own OSH programs).


Accident Type: Struck by Falling Object


Type of Operation: Transmission Tower

Construction


Union or Non-union Union

Competent Safety Monitor

on Site:

Yes


Effect:

Yes


Regularly: Yes

Training and Education

Provided:

No

Employee Job Title: Groundman (Framer)

Age & Sex: 24-Male

Experience at this Type of

Work: 2 Years

Time on Project: 3 Days


Ball and socket connectors are used to attach conductor stringing blocks to insulators on the arms

of 90 foot metal towers of electrical transmission lines. Normally stainless steel cotter keys

secure the ball and socket connector in place. In this case, however, black electrical tape was

wrapped around the socket to keep the ball in place rather than a cotter key. The tape apparently

stretched and the ball came loose, dropping the stringing block approximately 90 feet onto the

head of an employee below, one of a four-man erection crew.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations alleging three serious and two other-than-

serious violations.




1. Rigging and equipment must be inspected regularly and maintained in safe operating

condition as required by general provisions of OSHA's construction (29 CFR 1926.995).

2. Employees must be instructed to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions and be made

aware of regulations which apply to the work and the work area to eliminate safety and

health hazards as required in the safety training and education section of OSHA's

construction safety standards (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).

SOURCES OF HELP




National Technical Information Service -- Order No. PB-239-312/AS) comprised of set

of 15 guidelines to help construction employers establish a training program in the safe

use of equipment, tools and machinery the job.


number of your local OSHA area or regional office for further assistance and advice

(listed under the U.S. Department of Labor or under the state government section where

states administer the own OSH programs).

Courses in construction safety are offered by the OSHA Training Institute, 1555 Times

Dr., Des Plaines, Ill. 60018 (302) 297-4810.


Accident Type: Trench Cave-in

Weather Conditions: Good

Type of Operation: Pipe Laying


Collective Bargaining No

Competent Safety Monitor on Site: No

Safety and Health Program in Effect: No

Was the Worksite Inspected Regularly: No

Training and Education Provided: No

Employee Job Title: Pipe Layer

Age & Sex: 32-Male

Experience at this Type of Work: 4 Months

Time on Project: 5 Minutes


Two employees were installing storm drain pipes in a trench, approximately 20-30 feet long, 12-

13 feet deep and 5-6 feet wide. The side walls consisted of unstable soil undermined by sand and

water. There was 3-5 feet of water in the north end of the trench and 5-6 inches of water in the

south end. At the time of the accident, a backhoe was being used to clear the trench. The west

wall of the trench collapsed, and one employee was crushed and killed.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for one willful, one serious, and one-other-

than-serious violation of its construction standards.




1. Employers must shore, slope sheet or brace sides of trenches in unstable material (29

CFR 1926.652(b) or 1926.651(c)).

2. There must be a means of escape from a trench such as ladder (29 CFR 1926.652(h)).

3. Trench work is to be inspected daily by a "competent person". When there is evidence of

cave-ins or slides, all work must stop (29 CFR 1926.650(i)).

4. Water must not be allowed to accumulate in a trench (29 CFR 1926.651(p)).

5. Excavation material must be moved at least two feet from the edge of the trench (29 CFR

1926.651(i)).

6. Where heavy equipment is operating near a trench, extra precautions must be taken due

to the extra load imposed on the ground (29 CFR 1926.651(q)).

SOURCES OF HELP



Excavation and Trenching Operations (OSHA 2226), is a 20-page booklet describing

pertinent OSHA standards in detail.

Safety and Health Excavation and Trenching Operations, available from the National

Audio Visual Center (NAC) (Order No. 689601, $60) an instructional program designed

to increase awareness and understanding of the problems and hazards in excavation and

trenching operations. It includes an instructor's guide and 139 slides.

Trenching, also available from NAC (Order No. 007516, $40), a slide-tape hazard

recognition program including 96 slides, instructor's guide, workbook and course outline.

Sloping, Shoring and Shielding, a one-day instructional program with classroom sessions

and hands-on workshop. Available from NAC (Order No. 009863, $30), the package

includes an instructor's manual, outline for field exercise/workshop and 60 slides.


Accident Type: Crushed by Falling

Machinery

Weather Conditions: Dry, Partly Sunny

Type of Operation: General Contractor




Site:

Yes


Effect:

Yes


Regularly: Yes


Provided:

No

Employee Job Title: Millwright

Age & Sex: 29-Male


Work: 2 years

Time on Project: 3 weeks


Two employees were making final adjustments to a large machine in a new paper mill facility.

They were using two hydraulic jacks and two 4" × 4" uprights under one end of the 6,000 lb.

piece of equipment which was suspended by four ¾ threaded rods. First, the employees would

jack up one end of the piece about an inch. Then, one employee would climb a set of temporary

steps to hand tighten the nuts on the threaded rods. Thus, the 6,000 lb. piece was supported

solely by the two vertical timbers on the heads of the hydraulic jacks. The timbers were set under

a 5/8" side rail without any block or other devices between them. No cribbing, blocking, shoring

or other stabilizing methods were used to secure the load after it was raised. When the end of the

piece was jacked up, it fell, crushing one employee and narrowly missing the other.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for three alleged serious violations of its

standards. OSHA standards include several requirements which, if they had been followed,

might have prevented this fatality.


1. Establish written procedures outlining the steps to be followed during installation of new

equipment. Review the procedures with employees to ensure they understand and arrange

for supervisors to check periodically to see that the established procedures are being

followed.

2. Train employees in the proper inspection techniques for hydraulic jacks and the

procedures to be used during the installation of the equipment (1926.21(b)(2)).

3. Crib or block the load after raising to secure it against movement (1910.244(a)(2)(iii)).

4. Inspect hydraulic jacks at least every 6 months for deteriorated lines, leaks, mushroomed

heads, etc. (1910.244(a)(2)(vi)(a)).

5. Inspect rigging equipment prior to each shift use (1926.251 (a)(1)).

SOURCES OF HELP


safety and health rules and regulations (1926 and 1910) covering construction.

OSHA Safety and Health Training Guide-lines for Construction (available from the

National Technical Information Service - Order No. PB-239-312/AS) comprised of a set

of 15 guidelines to help construction employees establish a training program in the safe

use of equipment, tools, and machinery on the job.



(listed under the U.S. Department of Labor or under the state government section where

states administer the own OSH programs).


Accident Type: Electrocution

Weather Conditions: Wet Ground

Type of Operation: Remodeling





Was the Worksite Inspected Regularly: Yes


Employee Job Title: Carpenter

Age & Sex: 33-Male

Experience at this Type of Work: 30 Days



Two employees were installing aluminum siding on a farmhouse when it became necessary to

remove a 36-foot high metal pole CB antenna. One employee stood on a metal pick board

between two ladders and unfastened the antenna at the top of the house. The other employee,

who was standing on the ground, took the antenna to lay it down in the yard. The antenna made

electrical contact with a 7200-volt power transmission line 30 feet 10 inches from the house and

23 feet 9 inches above the ground. The employee handling the antenna received a fatal shock and

the other employee a minor shock.

INSPECTION RESULTS

Following its investigation, OSHA issued one citation for two alleged serious violations of its

construction standards. Had these standards been adhered to, the fatality might have been

prevented.


1. Note the presence of power lines and be extremely cautious when working near them.

Train employees to recognize and avoid electrical hazards (29CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).

2. Do not permit employees to work near any part of an electrical power circuit which might

be contacted in the course of the work. Guard all electrical power circuits against

accidental contact by insulating the circuit or deenergizing it or by other effective means

that would protect the employee (29CFR 1926.400(C)(1)).

SOURCES OF HELP




National Technical Information Service - Order No. PB-239-312/AS) comprised of a set

of 15 guidelines to help construction employees establish a training program in the safe

use of equipment, tools, and machinery on the job.


number of your local OSHA area or regional office for further assistance and advice (list

under the U.S. Department of Labor or under the state government section where states

administer the own OSH programs).


Accident Type: Fall from Elevation

Weather Conditions: Cool, Clear

Type of Operation: Exterior

Renovation






Regularly: Yes



Age & Sex: 22-Male


Time on Project: 2 Hours


Two laborers were working on a motorized two-point suspension scaffold 70 feet above ground

level without safety belts, lanyards, or lifelines. Three wire rope clips forming an "eye'" for

connecting the wire rope to the C. hook failed and that end of the scaffold came down. One

employee fell to the ground, and the second employee at the other end was catapulted through an

open window where he was pulled to safety by office workers. Two of the rope clips were still

attached to the end of the rope after the accident. The inside tread of the third clip, which fell,

was found to be stripped.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for four alleged repeat violations of its

construction standards.




1. All wire ropes, fiber and synthetic ropes, slings. hangers, platforms, and other sup-porting

parts must be inspected before every installation. Periodic inspections also must be made

while the scaffold is in use (29 CFR 1926.451(i)(7)).

2. On suspension scaffolds each employee must be protected by an approved safety life belt

attached to the lifeline. The lifeline must be securely attached to substantial members of

the structure (not scaffold), or to securely rigged lines which will safely suspend the

employee in case of fall. The lifeline must be appropriately adjusted as the work

progresses (29 CFR 1926.451(I)(8)).

SOURCES OF HELP


safety and health rules and regulations covering construction

Selected Occupational Fatalities Related to Powered, Two-Point Suspension

Scaffolds/Powered Platforms as found in reports of OSHA Fatality/Catastrophe

Investigations (available from the National Technical Information Service - Order No.

PB83-194-050).


number of your local OSHA area or regional office for further assistance and

advice(listed under the U.S. Labor Department or under the state government where

states administer their own OSH programs)


Accident Type: Collapse of Shoring


Type of Operation: Boring and Pipe Jacking

Excavation



Competent Safety Monitor

on Site:

Yes

Safety and Health Program

in Effect:

No


Regularly: Yes


Provided:

Yes

Employee Job Title: Pipe Welder

Age & Sex: 62-Male


Work: 18 years

Time on Project: 2½


Four employees were boring a hole and pushing a 20-inch pipe casing under a road. The

employees were in an excavation approximately 9 feet wide, 32 feet long and 7 feet deep. Steel

plates 8' × 15' × ¾", being used as shoring, were placed vertically against the north and south

walls of the excavation at approximately a 30 degree angle. There were no horizontal braces

between the steel plates. The steel plate on the south wall tipped over, pinning an employee (who

was killed ) between the steel plate and the pipe casing. At the time the plate tipped over, a

backhoe was being operated adjacent to the excavation.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued a citation for two alleged serious violations of its

construction standards.




1. Provide an adequately constructed and braced shoring system for employees working in

an excavation that may expose employees to the danger of moving ground (29 CFR

1926.651(c))

2. If heavy equipment is operated near an excavation, stronger shoring must be used to

resist the extra pressure due to superimposed loads (29 CFR 1926.651(q))

SOURCES OF HELP



Excavation and Trenching Operations (OSHA 2226) which details OSHA excavation and

trenching standards

Safety and Health in Excavation and Trenching Operations (available from the National

Audiovisual Center - Order No 689601 ), an instructional program with instructor's

manual and 139 slides designed to provide greater knowledge and understanding of

hazards in excavation and trenching.


Accident Type: Fall, Different

Level

Weather Conditions: Clear, Warm

Type of Operation: Painting Contractor





Effect:

No


Regularly: No

Training and Education Provided: Inadequate

Employee Job Title: Painter

Age & Sex: 29-Male

Experience at this Type of Work: Unknown

Time on Project: 1 month


Two employees were painting the exterior of a three-story building when one of the two

outriggers on their two-point suspension scaffold failed. One painter safely climbed back onto

the roof while the other fell approximately 35 feet to his death. The outriggers were inadequately

counterweighted with three 5-gallon buckets containing sand and were not secured to a

structurally sound portion of the building. Neither painter was wearing an approved safety belt

and lanyard attached to an independent lifeline.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for five serious and two other than serious

violations of its construction standards. OSHA's construction safety standards include several

requirements which, if they had been followed here, might have prevented this fatality.


1. Develop and maintain a safety and health program to provide guidance for safe

operations (29 CFR 1926.20(b)(1)).

2. Institute, a program for frequent and regular inspections of the job site, as well as

materials and equipment by a competent person(s) (29 CFR 1926.20(b)(2)).

3. Instruct each employee on how to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions which apply to

the work and work areas (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).

4. Construct scaffolds and their components so that they can support at least four times the

maximum intended load (29 CFR 1926.451(a)(7)).

5. Install outrigger tiebacks of ¾ inch rope, or equivalent, to a structurally sound portion of

the building to provide a secondary means of anchorage (29 CFR 1926.451(i)(4)).

6. Require employees to wear approved safety belt and lanyard equipment attached to an

independent lifeline that is attached to a substantial structural member (29 CFR

1926.451(i)(8)).

SOURCES OF HELP

Construction Safety and Health Standards (OSHA 2207) which contains OSHA job


"Selected Occupational Fatalities Related to Powered, Two-Point Suspension Scaffolds/

Powered Platforms as Found in Re-ports of OSHA Fatality/Catastrophe Investigations"

(available from the National Technical Information Service - Order No. PB83-194-050).


number of your local OSHA area or regional office for further assistance and ad-vice

(listed under the U.S. Labor Department or under the state government section where

states administer their own OSH programs).


Accident Type: Crushed by Dump Truck

Body

Weather Conditions: Clear, Warm

Type of Operation: General Contractor

Size of Work Crew: N/A



Site:

Yes


Effect:

Yes


Regularly: Yes


Provided:

No

Employee Job Title: Truck Driver

Age & Sex: 25-Male


Work: 2 Months

Time on Project: 2 Weeks at Site


A truck driver was crushed and killed between the frame and dump box of a dump truck.

Apparently a safety "overtravel" cable attached between the truck frame and the dump box

malfunctioned by catching on a protruding nut of an air brake cylinder. This prevented the dump

box from being fully raised, halting its progress at a point where about 20 inches of space

remained between it and the truck frame. The employee, apparently assuming that releasing the

cable would allow the dump box to continue up-ward, reached between the rear dual wheels and

over the frame, and disengaged the cable with his right hand. The dump box then dropped

suddenly, crushing his head. The employee had not received training or instruction in proper

operating procedures and was not made aware of all potential hazards in his work.

INSPECTION RESULTS

Following its inspection, OSHA issued one citation for one alleged serious violation of its

construction standards. Had the required training been provided to the employee, this fatality

might have been prevented.


Employees must be instructed to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions associated with their

work (29 CFR 1926.21 (b)(2)).

SOURCES OF HELP


safety and health rules and regulations (1926 and 1910) covering construction. OSHA-

funded free consultation services.

Consult your telephone directory for the number of your local OSHA area or regional

office for further assistance and advice (listed under U.S. Labor Department or under the

state government section where states administer their own OSHA programs).


Accident Type: Fall from Elevation


Type of Operation: Plumbing

Contractor





Effect:

Yes


Regularly: Yes


Employee Job Title: Plumber

Age & Sex: 37-Male

Experience at this Type of Work: 3 Weeks



Employees were working on structural steel, hoisting pipes from ground level to higher levels for

storage. While guiding a pipe to be stored on the floor above, one employee walked backwards

off the end of a stored pipe. He fell about 12 feet to a concrete deck, suffering a fatal head injury.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued a citation alleging one serious violation.




1. Employers must require the wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment (safety

belts) wherever employees are exposed to hazardous conditions. (29 CFR 1926.28(a).)

2. The derrick or erection floor must be solidly planked or decked over its entire surface

except for access openings. Planking, or decking of equivalent strength, must be thick

enough to carry the working load. Planking must not be less than 2 inches thick full size

undressed and should be laid tight and secured to prevent movement. (29 CFR

1926.750(b)(1)(i).)

3. A safety railing of ½ inch wire rope or of equal strength must be installed approximately

42 inches high around the periphery of all temporary-planked or temporary metal-decked

floors of tier buildings and other multi-floored structures during structural steel assembly.

(29 CFR 1926.750(b)(l )(iii).)

SOURCES OF HELP

construction Safety and Health Standards (OSHA 2207) which contains OSHA job safety

and health rules and regulations (1926 and 1910) covering construction.

OSHA Safety and Health Training guidelines for Construction (available from the

National Technical Information Service Order No. PB-239-309/SET) designed to help

construction employers establish a training program in the safe use of equipment, tools,

and machinery on the job.

OSHA - funded free onsite consultation services. Consult your telephone directory for the


(listed under the U.S. Labor Department or under the state government section where

states administer their own OSH programs).


Dr., Des Plaines, Ill. 60018 ((312) 297-4810).


Accident Type: Caught by Rotating

Part


Type of Operation: Telephone Line

Installation




Site:

Yes - Victim


Effect:

Yes


Regularly: Yes


Provided:

No

Employee Job Title: Boring Machine

Operator

Age & Sex: 56-Male


Work: 10 Years



A three-man crew was installing an underground telephone cable in a residential area. They had

just completed a bore hole under a driveway using a horizontal boring machine. The bore hole

rod had been removed from the hole. While the rod was still rotating, the operator straddled it

and stooped over to pick it up. His trouser leg became entangled in the rotating rod and he was

flipped over. He struck tools and materials, sustaining fatal injuries.

INSPECTION RESULTS

Following its inspection, OSHA issued one citation for one alleged serious violation of its

construction standards. Had the equipment been properly guarded, this fatality might have been

prevented.


1. Employees must be instructed to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions associated with

their work (29.CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).

2. Guards must be installed on moving parts of equipment with which employees may come

into contact (29 CFR 1926.300(b)(2)).

SOURCES OF HELP

Construction Safety and Health Standards (OSHA 2207) which maintains all OSHA job

safety and health rules and regulations (1926 and 1910) coveting construction.

OSHA-funded free consultation services. Consult your telephone directory for the


(listed under U.S. Labor Department or under the state government section where states

administer their own OSHA programs).


Accident Type: Crushing

Weather Conditions: Snowing

Type of Operation: Paving

Constructor






Regularly: Yes


Employee Job Title: Operating

Engineer

Age & Sex: 29-Male

Experience at this Type of Work: 1 Years

Time on Project: 1 Week


An employee was operating a bulldozer at the top edge of a sloped excavation for a six-foot deep

drainage ditch. The bulldozer began to slide down the side of the snow and ice covered

excavation. It tipped over on its side, pinning the operator under the roll bars.

INSPECTION RESULTS

OSHA's inspection resulted in one citation for one alleged serious violation of its construction

standards. If the bulldozer operator had been wearing a seat belt, as required by OSHA standards,

this fatality might have been prevented.



their work (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).

2. Employers must require employees to wear appropriate personal protective equipment -

such as a seatbelt -whenever it is necessary to reduce a hazard (29 CFR 1926.28(a)).

SOURCES OF HELP






Accident Type: Fall from

Elevation

Weather Conditions: Snowing

Type of Operation: Mason Contractor






Regularly: Yes


Employee Job Title: Mason Tender

Age & Sex: 44-Male


Time on Project: 3 Months


A laborer and his foreman were riding a material hoist carrying two skids of bricks up to the

work floor. The skid jack handle fell and jammed into the interior cross bracing bar of the hoist

at the fifth floor level. At the sixth floor level, the foreman jumped off the hoist. He struck the

protection platform bar and was subsequently knocked into the hoist shaft. He fell 60 feet to his

death.

INSPECTION RESULTS

Following inspection, OSHA cited the employer for one serious violation of its construction

standards. Had the OSHA regulation prohibiting personnel from riding material hoists been

followed, this accident would not have occurred.



their work (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).

2. No one may ride on material hoists except to inspect or maintain them (29 CFR

1926.552(b)(l)(ii)).

SOURCES OF HELP




Accident Type: Caught in Machinery


Type of Operation: Well Drilling




Site: Yes


Effect: Yes


Regularly: No


Employee Job Title: Company Vice

President

Age & Sex: 30-Male

Experience at this Type of Work: Unknown



Two employees were attempting to adjust the brakes on a backhoe. The victim told the backhoe

operator to raise the wheels off the ground with the front bucket and the outriggers, put the

backhoe in gear at idle speed and step on the brakes. The victim then crawled under the machine

and began to adjust the brakes. There was a 36-inch space from the ground to the drive shaft.

Five minutes later another employee discovered the victim limp under the backhoe with the hood

of his rain jacket wrapped around the drive shaft. The employee's neck had been broken by the

jacket wrapping around the backhoe drive shaft.


1. Before adjusting backhoe brakes, turn off the machine and set the controls in neutral and

the brake and cut-off pedals in the uppermost position. Block the wheels, except for the

one to be adjusted, as recommended by the operator's manual.

2. Train employees to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions associated with their work (29

CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).

3. Develop and implement a training program for employees on the proper procedures for

adjusting and bleeding backhoe brakes.

SOURCES OF HELP




Accident Type: Asphyxiation

Weather Conditions: Warm, partly cloudy

Type of Operation: Sandblasting/painting

contractor



Competent Safety

Monitor on Site: Yes

Safety and Health

Program in Effect: Limited

Was the Worksite

Inspected Regularly: Yes


Provided: Inadequate

Employee Job Title: Sandblaster/Painter

Age & Sex: 56-Male

Experience at this Type

of Work:

5 years on a permanently

assigned crew

Time on Project: 45 minutes


A contract employee was assigned to sandblast the inside of a reactor vessel during turnaround

activities at a petrochemical refinery. Instead of relying on the contract company's own air

compressors in accordance with the contractor's policy, the contract foreman connected the

employee's supplied air respirator to a hose containing what he thought was plant air. Instead it

was nitrogen. Both hoses were identical except for markings at the shutoff valve. The sandblaster

entered the vessel, descended to the bottom, placed the respirator hood on his head and was

overcome.


1. Employers must instruct employees to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions associated

with their work (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).

2. Contractors should follow a policy of using only their own air compressors or breathing

air cylinders for their employees.

3. Middle and/or upper management personnel should routinely check first line supervisors

to insure they are following established company safety policies.

SOURCES OF HELP

Safety and Health Requirements for Working in Confined Space, a slide-tape training

program including instructor's guide and class handouts, helps employees recognize

potential sources of danger in confined spaces and explains how to select and use proper

protective clothing and equipment. Available from the National Audio Visual Center,

order No. A12793, for $90, prepaid, 8700 Edgeworth Dr., Capitol Heights, MD 20743-

3701, telephone (301) 763-1896.





(Listed under U.S. Labor Department or under the state government section where states




Weather Conditions: Warm

Type of Operation: Boring, Jacking








Age & Sex: 23-Male

Experience at this Type of Work: 1 Day

Time on Project: 1 Hour


An employee sitting in a looped chain was lowered approximately 17 feet into a 21-foot deep

manhole. Twenty seconds later he started gasping for air and fell from the chain seat face down

into the accumulated water at the bottom of the manhole. An autopsy determined oxygen

deficiency as the cause of death.


1. Instruct employees to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions associated with their work

environment (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).

2. Instruct employees on hazards involved in entering confined or enclosed spaces (29 CFR

1926.21(b)(6)(i) and (b)(6)(ii)).

3. Provide and require employees to use appropriate respiratory protection (29 CFR

1926.103(a)(1) and 1910.134.

SOURCES OF HELP







Weather Conditions: Sunny/Clear

Type of Operation: Fence

Construction






Regularly: No



Age & Sex: 25-Male


Time on Project: 1 Day


Five employees were constructing a chain link fence in front of a house and directly below a

7200-volt energized power line. They were installing 21-foot sections of metal top rail on the

fence. One employee picked up a 21-foot section of top rail and held it up vertically. The top rail

contacted the 7200-volt line, and the employee was electrocuted.

INSPECTION RESULTS

Following its inspection, OSHA determined that the employee who was killed had never

received any safety training from his employer nor any specific instruction in avoiding the

hazards posed by overhead power lines. The agency issued two serious citations for the training

deficiencies.


1. Employers must instruct employees to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions applicable

to their work environment [29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)].

2. Employers must not permit employees to work in proximity to any part of an electrical

power circuit when the employee could contact it during the course of work, unless the

employee is protected against electric shock by de-energizing the circuit and grounding it

or by guarding it effectively by insulation or other means [29 CFR 1910.416(a)(1)].

SOURCES OF HELP

OSHA General Industry Standards [CFR parts 1900-1910] and OSHA Construction

Standards [CFR Part 1926] which together include all OSHA job safety and health rules

and regulations covering construction.

Electrical Standards for Construction (OSHA 3097) which highlights electrical safety

rules for construction.

Ground-Fault Protection on Construction Sites (OSHA 3007) which explains ways to

guard against electrical shock on the construction site through use of ground-fault circuit

interrupters.

OSHA-funded free consultation services listed in telephone directories under U.S. Labor

Department or under the state government section where states administer their own

OSHA programs.



Weather Conditions: Clear/Dry

Type of Operation: Pole Setting







Employee Job Title: Material Hauler

Age & Sex: 55-Male




One employee was unloading a 40-foot wood telephone pole from a pipe rack mounted on a

truck crane. The truck operator raised the 17-foot boom to provide sufficient distance for the

employee to place a cable sling around the pole and then attach the sling to the crane hook.

However, in raising the boom, the operator made contact with overhead power lines. The victim

reached for the metal bicycle-chain style come-along which secured the pole to the truck rack

and received a fatal electrical shock.

* Firm had a safety and health training program, but it had not been updated to cover changes in

pole setting procedures.

INSPECTION RESULTS

Following its inspection, OSHA cited the employer for four serious violations involving training,

hazard identification, and minimum safe distances from overhead electrical lines.


1. Instruct employees to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions applicable to their work [29

CFR 1926.21(b)(2)].

2. Determine existing conditions, such as the voltage of overhead power lines, by inspection

or test before beginning work [29 CFR 1926.950(b) (l)].

3. Do not operate equipment where any part is within the prescribed distance of electrical

power lines rated over 50KV [29 CRF 1926.550(a)(15)(ii)].

4. When in transit, with no load and the boom lowered, crane operators must maintain a

clearance of four feet for voltages less than 50KV, 10 feet for voltages between 50KV

and 345KV and 16 feet for voltages up to and including 750KV [29 CFR 1926.550

(a)(15)(iii)].

SOURCES OF HELP




Electrical Standards for Construction (OSHA 3097') which highlights electrical safety

rules for construction.



OSHA programs.


Accident Type: Struck by Nail

Weather Conditions: N/A

Type of Operation: Remodeling







Employee Job Title: Maintenance

Age & Sex: 32-Male

Experience at this Type of Work: 1 Day



Two employees were doing remodeling construction and were building a wall. One of the

workers was killed when he was struck by a nail fired from a powder-actuated tool. The tool

operator, while attempting to anchor plywood to a 2" × 4" stud, fired the tool. The nail penetrated

the stud and the plywood partition prior to striking the victim.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for three serious violations. Had

employees been trained in the use of powder-actuated tools and had precautions been taken to

prevent the nail from passing through the wall, the accident probably would not have occurred.


1. Employees using powder-actuated tools must be trained in the operation of the particular

tool. [29 CFR 1926.302(e)(l)].

2. Driving into materials easily penetrated must be avoided unless materials are backed by a

substance that will prevent the nail from passing completely through and creating a flying

missile hazard on the other side [29 CFR 1926.302(e)(8)].

3. Operators and assistants using powder-actuated tools must be safeguarded with eye

protection [28 CFR 1926.302(e)(12)]

SOURCES OF HELP

OSHA General Industry Standards [29 CFR Parts 1900-1910] and OSHA Construction

Standards [29 CFR Part 1926] which together include all OSHA job safety and health

rules and regulations covering construction.



OSHA programs.


Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018, 312/297-4810


Accident Type:

Caught between Backhoe

Superstructure and Concrete

Wall

Weather Conditions: Clear/Cool

Type of Operation: Excavation Contractor



Competent Safety

Monitor on Site: No

Safety and Health

Program in Effect: No

Was the Worksite

Inspected Regularly: No

Training and

Education Provided: No

Employee Job Title: Truck Driver

Age & Sex: 34-Male

Experience at this

Type of Work: Unknown



The contractor was operating a backhoe when an employee attempted to walk between the

swinging superstructure of the backhoe and a concrete wall. As the employee approached the

backhoe from the operator's blind side, the superstructure hit the victim crushing him against the

wall.

INSPECTION RESULTS

OSHA issued two citations to the employer. One was based on failure to train employees in safe

work practices regarding the dangers of construction machinery. The other citation was for

failure to erect barricades to prevent entry into a swinging superstructure's radius.


1. Instruct each employee on the danger of passing between swinging superstructures of

large construction equipment and solid objects at the demolition site [29 CRF

1926.21(b)(2)].

2. Provide each employee employment and place of employment which are free from

recognized hazards causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his

employees [OSH Act Sec. 5(a)(1)].

SOURCES OF HELP






OSHA programs.

OSHA Safety and Health Training Guidelines for Construction (Available from the

National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161;

703/487-4650; Order No. PB-239-312/AS): a set of 15 guidelines to help construction

employers establish a training program in the safe use of equipment, tools, and machinery

on the job


Accident Type: Trench Cave-in


Type of Operation: Sewer Line Connection

Size of Work Crew: 1 Plumbing Company Employee/

1 Independent Backhoe Operator


Competent Safety

Monitor on Site: No

Safety and Health

Program in Effect: No

Was the Worksite

Inspected Regularly: No

Training and

Education Provided: No


Age & Sex: 44-Male

Experience at this

Type of Work: 1 Year



A plumbing company employee and an independent backhoe operator were making a sewer line

connection in a 13-foot deep trench when a portion of the trench wall caved in burying the

employee. The backhoe operator was buried up to his chest in the trench.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued a citation to the plumbing company for not shoring

up, sloping or supporting the sides of a trench in unstable or soft material.


1. The sides of trenches in unstable or soft material more than five feet in depth should be

shored, sheeted, braced, sloped or otherwise supported [29 CFR 1926.652(a)].

2. The employer must instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe

conditions and the regulations applicable to his work environment to control or eliminate

any hazards [29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)].

SOURCES OF HELP






OSHA programs.





on the job.


Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018, 312/297-4810.



Weather Conditions: Clear/Hot/Humid

Type of Operation: Window Shutter

Installers


Collective Bargaining N/A


Site: No


Effect: Partial


Regularly: No


Provided: Some

Employee Job Title: Helper

Age & Sex: 17-Male


Work: One Month

Time on Project: One Month


One employee was climbing a metal ladder to hand an electric drill to the journeyman installer

on a scaffold about five feet above him. When the victim reached the third rung from the bottom

of the ladder he received an electric shock that killed him.

The investigation revealed that the extension cord had a missing grounding prong and that a

conductor on the green grounding wire was making intermittent contact with the energizing

black wire thereby energizing the entire length of the grounding wire and the drill's frame. The

drill was not double insulated.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for violations of construction standards.


1. Use approved ground fault circuit interrupters or an assured equipment grounding

conductor program to protect employees on construction sites [29 CFR 1926.404(b)(1)].

2. Use equipment that provides a permanent and continuous path from circuits, equipment,

structures, conduit or enclosures to ground [29 CFR 1926.404(d)(6)].

3. Inspect electrical tools and equipment daily and remove damaged or defective equipment

from use until it is repaired [29 CFR 1926.404(b)(iii)(c)].

SOURCES OF HELP


Standards [CFR Part 1926]which together include all OSHA job safety and health rules




OSHA programs.





on the job.




Accident Type: Fall and

Drowning

Weather Conditions: Clear/Windy

Type of Operation: Construction



Safety and Health Program in Effect: Written


Regularly: Yes



Age & Sex: 20-Male


Time on Project: 4 Months


Employee was suspended to the worksite in a harness made of lightweight chain on the end of a

crane load line. During the operation the load line separated from a revolving drum due to

improper crane operation. The victim was dropped into approximately 40 feet of water and was

drowned. The supervisor in charge at time of the accident was the designated competent person

at the site.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for violations of nine standards.


1. The contractor should provide conventional means such as ladders, personnel hoists,

aerial lifts, elevated work platforms or scaffolds for employees to reach the worksite [29

CFR ; 926.550(g)(2)].

2. The contractor should perform a trial lift on the equipment to determine that all systems,

controls and safety devices are functioning properly immediately prior to hoisting

employee to worksite [29 CFR 1926.550(g)(5)].

3. The contractor should not permit inadequately trained employees to operate equipment or

machinery [29 CFR 1926.20(b)(4)].

4. Contractor should provide appropriate personal protective equipment such as safety belts

and lanyards for employees in operations where there is exposure to hazardous conditions

[29 CFR 1926.28(a)].

5. Employer should comply with manufacturer's specifications applicable to operation of

cranes or derricks [29 CFR 1926.550(a)(1)].

SOURCES OF HELP


Standards [CFR Part 1926] which together Include all OSHA job safety and health rules


For information on OSHA-funded free consultation services call the nearest OSHA area

office listed in telephone directories under U.S. Labor Department or under the state

government section where states administer their own OSHA programs.





on the job.




Accident Type: Struck by Falling

Wall

Weather Conditions: Clear/Wet Soil

Type of Operation: Trenching




Effect: Inadequate


Regularly: No, short duration

Training and Education Provided: Some


Age & Sex: 27-Male

Experience at this Type of Work: 1 Year



An employee was in the process of locating an underground water line. A trench had been dug

approximately 4 feet deep alongside a brick wall 7 feet high and 5 feet long. The brick wall

collapsed onto the victim who was standing in the trench. The injuries were fatal.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for violation of the standard.


The contractor should not permit employees to excavate below the level of the base of

foundation footings when walls are unpinned [29 CFR 1926.651(i)(1)]

SOURCES OF HELP

OSHA 2202 Construction Industry Digest ¯ includes all OSHA construction standards

and those general industry standards that apply to construction. Order No. 029-016-

00151-4, ($2.25). Available from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing

Office, Washington DC 20402-9325, phone (202) 512-1800. Make checks payable to

Superintendent of Documents. For phone orders, Visa® or MasterCard®.

OSHA 2254 Training Requirements in OSHA Standards and Training Guidelines ¯

includes all OSHA construction standards and those general industry standards that apply

to construction. Order No. 029-016-00160-3, ($6.00). Available from the Superintendent

of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington DC 20402-9325, phone (202)

512-1800. Make checks payable to Superintendent of Documents. For phone orders,

Visa® or MasterCard®.

OSHA Safety and Health Guidelines for Construction (Available from the National

Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161; (703) 605-6000 or

(800) 553-6847; Order No. PB-239-312/AS, $27). Guidelines to help construction


on the job.



government section where states administer their own OSHA programs.





703/487-4650; Order No. PB-239-312/AS): guidelines to help construction employers

establish a training program in the safe use of equipment, tools, and machinery on the

Job.



Weather Conditions: Indoor Work

Type of Operation: Installing and Trouble-

shooting overhead lamps


Competent Safety

Monitor on Site: Yes

Safety and Health

Program in Effect: Inadequate

Was the Worksite

Inspected Regularly: Yes


Provided: No

Employee Job Title: Electrician

Age & Sex: 53-Male

Experience at this Type

of Work: Journeyman

Time on Project: 1 Month


The employee was attempting to correct an electrical problem involving two non-operational

lamps. He proceeded to the area where he thought the problem was. He had not shut off the

power at the circuit breaker panel nor had he tested the wires to see if they were live. He was

electrocuted when he grabbed the two live wires with his left hand and then fell from the ladder.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations alleging three serious violations. OSHA's

construction standards include several requirements which, if they had been followed here, might

have prevented this fatality.


1. The employer should not allow work to be done on electrical circuits unless an effective

lock-out/tag-out program is implemented [29 CFR 1926.416(a)(1)].

2. The employer should not allow work to be done on energized electrical circuits or circuits

which are not positively de-energized or tagged out [29 CFR 1926.417(a) and.417(c)].

SOURCES OF HELP

OSHA 2207 Construction Industry Manual -- includes all OSHA construction standards

and those general industry standards which relate to construction. Stock number 029-016-

00-122-1, (521). Available from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing

Office, Washington, D.C. 20402-9325, phone.

202-783-3238. Make checks payable to Superintendent of Documents. For phone orders,

you may use a GPO deposit account or Visa or MasterCard.

For Information on OSHA-funded free consultation services call the nearest OSHA area


government section in states administering their own OSHA programs.



703/487-4650; Order No. PB-239-312/AS) $19, to help construction employers establish

a training program.


Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018, (phone 708-297-4810).


Accident Type: Trench Collapse

Weather Conditions: Fair

Type of Operation: Excavation

Work




Effect: No


Regularly: No



Age & Sex: 51-Male




An employee was working in a trench 4 feet wide and 7 feet deep. About 30 feet away a backhoe

was straddling the trench when the backhoe operator noticed a large chunk of dirt falling from

the side wall behind the worker in the trench, he called out a warning. Before the worker could

climb out, 6 to 8 feet of the trench wall had collapsed on him and covered his body up to his

neck. He suffocated before the backhoe operator could dig him out. There were no exit ladders.

No sloping, shoring or other protective system had been used in the trench.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations alleging three serious violations. OSHA's

construction standards include several requirements which, if they had been followed here, might

have prevented this fatality.


1. Instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the

regulations applicable to the work environment [29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)].

2. Provide protection from cave-ins by an adequate protective system [29 CFR

1926.652(a)(1)].

3. Provide a means of egress within 25 feet of employees in a trench 4 feet or more deep,

such as a ladder or stairway [29 CFR 1926.651(c)(2)].

SOURCES OF HELP

Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1926 -- 0SHA construction standards, in

particular Subpart P Excavations. The OSHA standards are available at www.osha.gov

For Information on OSHA-funded free consultation services use the A-Z index to find

state locate "Consultation Services" at www.osha.gov.

For information about construction resources use the A-Z index to find the construction

page at www.osha.gov

For the "Small Business Handbook" use the A-Z index to find its link at www.osha.gov

Courses in construction safety are offered by the OSHA's Directorate of Training and

Education. Course and contact information is listed at www.osha.gov under the Training

tab.

http://www.osha.gov/index.html






Accident Type: Fall


Type of Operation: Demolition







Age & Sex: 30-Male




An employee was working on a scaffold near the top of a 250-toot smoke stack when a section of

concrete being removed fell onto the scaffold, knocking the employee off. The employee was not

tied off with a safety belt and lanyard and fell to the ground below.

INSPECTION RESULTS

As a result of its investigation of the accident, OSHA issued citations alleging two willful and

several serious violations. OSHA's construction standards include requirements which, if they

had been followed here, might have prevented this fatality.


1. The employer must install standard guardrails (toprail, midrail and toeboards) on all open

sides and ends of the bracket scaffold around the top of the smoke stack. [29 CFR

1926.451(a)(4)].

2. The employer must provide training to inform employees of potential hazards while

working on the scaffold. [29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)].

3. The employer must provide a positive procedure to ensure that concrete sections fall

inside, instead of outside, the smoke stack. [Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act].

SOURCES OF HELP

Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1926 - OSHA construction standards.

Revised 7/1/92. Stock number 869-017-00122-1 ($14). Available from the

Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402-

9325, Phone 202/783-3238. For phone orders you may use a GPO deposit account. Visa,

MasterCard or checks made payable to Superintendent of Documents.



government section in states administering their own OSHA programs.



phone 703/487-4650; Order No. PB-239-312/AS, $19.00) to help construction employees

establish a training program.


Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018 (phone 708/297-4610).



Weather Conditions: Clear/Cool

Type of Operation: Painting/Sand

Blasting




Effect: Yes


Regularly: No


Employee Job Title: Sandblaster

Age & Sex: 31-Male




Three employees were sandblasting portions of a heat exchanger in a manufacturing plant,

preparing the surface for paint. The job was almost finished except for some touch-up work. The

air compressor used to supply breathing air to the sand-blasters' hoods was sent to another job.

The workers hooked their supply hoses into the plant's air system without clearing it with the

plant's management.

The plant operators, not knowing the plant air was being used for breathing air, shut down the

compressor for scheduled maintenance. This caused the nitrogen back-up system to come on line

to maintain air pressure.

One sandblaster was asphyxiated from the nitrogen being fed into his hood.

INSPECTION RESULTS

Following an inspection, OSHA issued citations for two serious and two other-than-serious

violations of OSHA standards.


1. Ensure that employees are thoroughly trained when required to use respirators in

atmospheres immediately dangerous to life, in accordance with 29 Code of Federal

Regulations (CFR) 1926.103(c)(1).

2. Ensure that the compressor used to supply breathing air has a high-temperature or carbon

monoxide alarm or both, in accordance with 29 CFR 1926.103(f).

3. WARNING: Nitrogen back-up systems are often used as the back-up system for

compressed air systems. Always determine the type of back-up system before using any

air system for breathing purposes.

4. Ensure that frequent and regular inspections of the job site are being done, in accordance

with 29 CFR 1926.20(b)(2).

5. Ensure that employees are trained in hazard recognition and avoidance, in accordance

with 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2).

SOURCES OF HELP

OSHA Construction Standards [29 CFR Part 1926], which include all OSHA job safety

and health rules and regulations covering construction, may be purchased from the

Government Printing Office, phone (202) 512-1800, fax (202) 512-2250, order number

869022-00114-1, $33.



OSHA programs.

OSHA Safety and Health Training Guidelines for Construction, Volume III (Available

from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA

22161; phone (703) 487-4650; Order No. PB-239-312/AS, $25) to help construction

employers establish a training program.



OSHA regulations, documents and technical information also are available on CD-ROM,

which may be purchased from the Government Printing Office, phone (202) 512-1800 or

fax (202) 5122250, order number 729-13-00000-5; cost $79 annually; $28 quarterly. That

information also is on the Internet World Wide Web at http://www.osha.gov./


Accident Type: Fall (Thrown from)

Weather Conditions: Unknown

Type of Operation: Cleaning, Replacing and

Caulking Brick



Site: No


Effect: Yes


Regularly: No


Provided: Yes


Age & Sex: 45-Male


Work: Unknown

Time on Project: 3 Weeks


Employee was operating an aerial lift, with an extendable boom rotating aerial work platform. He was

thrown from the basket while moving the machine. The boom was fully extended and the machine

apparently ran over some bricks, causing the boom to flex or spring, throwing the employee from the

basket. The fall was about 37 feet to a concrete surface. The employee died from severe head and chest

injuries.

The foreman was not on the site at the time.


1. Have a competent person conduct frequent regular inspections of the worksite, in accordance with

29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1926.20(b)(2).

2. Permit only those employees qualified by training to operate equipment and machinery, in

accordance with 1926.20(b)(4).

3. Instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations

applicable to his or her work environment, in accordance with 1926.21 (b)(2).

4. Prohibit unauthorized persons from operating aerial lifts, in accordance with 1926.556(b)(2)(ii).

5. Require the wearing of a body belt and lanyard at all times while in this type of device, in

accordance with 1926.556(b)(2)(v)

SOURCES OF HELP

OSHA Construction Standards [29 CFR Part 1926], which include all OSHA job safety and

health rules and regulations covering construction, may be purchased from the Government

Printing Office, phone (202) 512-1800, fax (202) 512-2250, order number 869022-00114-1, $33.


Department or under the state government section where states administer their own OSHA

programs.

OSHA Safety and Health Training Guidelines for Construction, Volume III (Available from the

National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161; phone

(703) 487-4650; Order No. PB-239-312/AS, $25) to help construction employers establish a

training program.

Courses in construction safety are offered by the OSHA Training Institute, 1555 Times Drive,

Des Plaines, IL 60018, 847/297-4810.

OSHA regulations, documents and technical information also are available on CD-ROM, which

may be purchased from the Government Printing Office, phone (202) 512-1800 or fax (202)

5122250, order number 729-13-00000-5; cost $79 annually; $28 quarterly. That information also

is on the Internet World Wide Web at http://www.osha.gov./


Accident Type: Death due to burns

Weather Conditions: Unknown

Type of Operation: Excavating for building

a road



Site: No


Effect: No


Regularly: No


Provided: No

Employee Job Title: Bulldozer Operator

Age & Sex: 44-Male


Work: 15 years

Time on Project: 2 days


A bulldozer operator was preparing a road bed by using the machine to lift trees out of the way.

A hydraulic line to the right front hydraulic cylinder ruptured, spraying hydraulic fluid onto the

engine manifold and into the operator's compartment. Upon contact with the hot manifold, the

hydraulic fluid ignited, engulfing the operator in flames. The operator died from the burns he

received.

INSPECTION RESULTS

Following an inspection, OSHA issued citations for two serious violations of OSHA standards:

1. Frequent and regular inspections of equipment were not made by competent persons

designated by the employer in accordance with 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)

1926.20(b)(2). It was determined that the hydraulic hose had been installed backward so

that a bend in the fitting connection made contact with the body of the bulldozer,

resulting in wear and abrasion of the hose at the connection. This was not discovered

during inspection of the machine.

2. The employees doing inspections were not instructed to examine the hoses for signs of

wear and abrasion as required by 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2).


1. Train maintenance and operating personnel to recognize potential problems with the

operation of the machinery.

2. Have competent persons perform periodic inspections of all operating equipment.

3. Ensure that the employer initiates and maintains a safety and health program, in

accordance with 29 CFR 1926.20(b)(1).

SOURCES OF HELP

OSHA Construction Standards [29 CFR Part 1926], which include all OSHA job safety

and health rules and regulations covering construction, may be purchased from the

Government Printing Office, phone (202) 512-1800, fax (202) 512-2250, order number

869022-00114-1, $33.



OSHA programs.

OSHA Safety and Health Training Guidelines for Construction, Volume III (Available

from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA

22161; phone (703) 487-4650; Order No. PB-239-312/AS, $25) to help construction

employers establish a training program.



OSHA regulations, documents and technical information also are available on CD-ROM,

which may be purchased from the Government Printing Office, phone (202) 512-1800 or

fax (202) 5122250, order number 729-13-00000-5; cost $79 annually; $28 quarterly. That

information also is on the Internet World Wide Web at http://www.osha.gov./

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